In response to a request from the management of Photon Dynamics Limited (SIC-3231), Longwood, Florida, an investigation was made of airborne emissions produced from materials being cut by a carbon- dioxide laser. Photon Dynamics Limited specialized in unique applications of lasers within the industrial environment. The major emphasis was developmental work in high speed cutting of quartz (14808607) material using lasers. At the time of the measurements there were four full time employees, only one of whom was involved continuously with laser cutting. Photon Dynamics shared a building wing with two other companies; fumes and vapors produced from the laser operations were quite evident to personnel working in these other companies. Personal breathing zone sampling revealed respirable exposure concentrations to fused silica (60676860) as high as 2.2mg/m3. Air samples taken for trace elements at two inches from the source identified small quantities of chromium (7440473), copper (7440508), iron (7439896), nickel (7440020), and zinc (7440666) on each of the samples collected. Qualitative samples identified ethyl-acrylate (140885) as the major component produced during laser cutting of four types of plastics. Radiometric analysis indicted occupational exposure to laser radiation was below the allowable standards. The authors conclude that a hazard existed from exposure to respirable fused silica dust and ethyl-acrylate. The authors recommend measures to reduce exposures, primarily through the use of ventilation controls.